Super Eagles Open AFCON 2025 Campaign with Gritty Win Over Tanzania in Fez

Nigeria’s Super Eagles opened their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in a dramatic encounter played under heavy rain in Fez. The match, which featured VAR controversy and swift momentum swings, showed the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s resilience and attacking quality.

The Super Eagles started the match brightly, as they asserted control early and enjoyed the majority of possession. Akor Adams nearly marked his Afcon debut with a goal in the ninth minute, but his powerful header struck the crossbar. Nigeria continued applying pressure,and forced several saves from the Tanzanian goalkeeper.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 36th minute when Alex Iwobi delivered a precise cross into the box, allowing Semi Ajayi to rise above the defence and head the ball into the bottom corner to give Nigeria a deserved lead.

The second half produced immediate drama. Victor Osimhen appeared to have doubled Nigeria’s advantage with an inventive backheel finish, but the goal was ruled out after a VAR review for offside. Tanzania capitalised on the moment soon after, with Charles M’Mombwa finishing clinically in the 50th minute to draw his side level.

Nigeria responded almost instantly. Two minutes after conceding, Ademola Lookman collected the ball just outside the penalty area, beat two defenders with quick footwork, and fired a left-footed strike past the goalkeeper to restore Nigeria’s lead.

As the match wore on, Tanzania pressed for an equaliser, but Nigeria’s defence remained composed. Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi were solid at the back, helping the Super Eagles see out the game despite the challenging conditions.

The victory places Nigeria on three points in Group C, level with Tunisia at the top of the standings. With a strong opening result secured, the Super Eagles now turn their attention to a crucial clash against Tunisia on Saturday, December 27.